MARCH 2021 | VOLUME 30, NO. 3 THE COUNCIL OF STATE GOVERNMENTS | MIDWESTERN OFFICE
Estimated Median income of Black households for every $1 of median income ‘protest to progress’ of white houesholds (2019) Data not available States such as Illinois, Kansas and Minnesota have taken ‘deep dives’ into issues of $0.54 Data not race and equity; a mix of new laws and legislative proposals have been the result $0.52 available $0.58 by Laura Kliewer ([email protected]) negotiations, major policy policymaking environment $0.56 $0.60 changes in areas such as for state legislators, and in $0.56 he death of George Floyd criminal justice, education and some ways, it provided some $0.53 $0.59 at the hands of police economic development went unforeseen opportunities for $0.63 Tbrought people across from the study stage to the legislators to focus on issues of the country to the streets in desk of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker racial justice. protest. Sources: U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, for signing. In Illinois, for example, the 2019, and CSG Midwest calculations Some were state legislators. “We all learned together,” Senate only met sporadically Among them: Kimberly Lightford says. “I think that last year, but adopted a rule Lightford, the Illinois Senate is why it was so successful, allowing for hearings to take majority leader and chair of the estimated Child poverty rates in Midwest, because of the inclusion, place via Zoom. state’s Legislative Black Caucus. by race/ethnicity (2019) because of the collaboration That decision enabled “I realized I was standing with our colleagues, because lawmakers to study a wide next to people from all across Non- we worked from a place of range of issues, setting the American Hispanic/ the state who didn’t look like State 1 Asian Black Hispanic research and data and best stage for legislative action in Indian Latino me, but they were just as in White practices. late 2020 and early 2021. support of the Black Lives “And we had the support of The Minnesota Legislature, Illinois 9% 10% 34% 20% 9% Matter movement and wanting our governor, Senate president meanwhile, held seven justice for all,” Indiana * 13% 34% 20% 11% and House speaker.” special sessions between Lightford recalls. Policymakers in June and December, primarily “It moved me to Iowa * 7% 37% 22% 10% other Midwestern to address Gov. Tim Walz’s think, ‘We’re ready states, such pandemic-related emergency Kansas 28% 16% 34% 27% 9% as a community as Kansas and declarations. and as a country Michigan 30% 9% 36% 31% 12% Minnesota, also A bill on police to undo many of have taken this kind accountability was signed Minnesota 26% 12% 37% 17% 6% these policies and of comprehensive procedures that into law during one of approach. Leaders these sessions (see page 6 Nebraska * * 32% 19% 7% actually created in all three of Illinois Sen. for details). In addition, the these inequities.’ “ North Dakota * * * * 6% Kimberly Lightford these states report Minnesota House passed a She saw a real notable, though chance to “move resolution declaring racism Ohio 38% 10% 39% 30% 13% varying, progress a public health crisis and from protest to since the summer. progress” — with the Illinois creating a select committee South Dakota 47% * * * 8% General Assembly helping lead with this task: UNIQUE LEGISLATIVE YEAR, Wisconsin 29% 17% 36% 25% 8% the way. “studying, evaluating, and 1 In only a few months’ time, AND A CHANCE TO LEARN conducting an assessment of the Data for American Indians include “American Indian and Alaska Native alone or in combination with one or more other races.” after many hours of legislative The COVID-19 pandemic existing policies and practices * Data on state-specific child poverty rates for this race/ethnicity were not hearings and subsequent dramatically changed the of the Minnesota House of available. Source: U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, 2019 COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 Inside this issue
CSG Midwest Issue Briefs 2-3 Capital Clips (Cont’d) 4 Capital Insights 8-9
• Health & Human Services: New legislative committees • Nebraska, South Dakota look to streamline licensing • Profile: Wisconsin allow for greater focus on mental health policy process for health professionals Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu • Agriculture & Natural Resources: Michigan is dedicating a • Term limits on holding legislative leadership posts now in portion of its mining tax to bolster rural development place in both chambers of Illinois General Assembly • FirstPerson article: Saskatchewan • Economic Development: States are using a variety of tools Agriculture Minister to help small businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic Capital Closeup 5 of Trade and Export • Midwest-Canada Relations: Biden, Trudeau establish new • States are running up against redistricting deadlines due Development Jeremy binational agenda of collaboration to a delay in the release of census data Harrison
Capital Clips 4 Question of the Month 5 CSG Midwest News 10
• Billions of federal dollars are • What steps have states taken to prevent fraud in their • Registration for this summer’s Midwestern Legislative coming to state and local unemployment systems? Conference Annual Meeting is now open governments in Midwest • New Wisconsin law boosts pay BILLD News & Alumni Notes 11 for public defenders after year of especially high turnover • New dates, application deadline set in 2021 for CSG Midwest’s renowned legislative leadership program CSG MIDWEST ISSUE BRIEFS
Health & Human Services
Legislatures form new standing committees on mental health in 2021 to improve policy focus, outcomes by Tim Anderson ([email protected]) newly formed Ohio House Behavioral Indiana legislators chose a share of adults with any mental illness Health and Supports Committee. different approach to focusing he one-two punch of the opioid “It’s something we all knew was more on behavioral health: instead in Midwest states (2017-’18) crisis and COVID-19 has propelled necessary because of a new standing committee, Tmental and behavioral health to it’s been necessary they passed a bill in 2020 (SB 273) 19.1% the top of state legislatures’ agendas, so for quite some establishing a new commission to 19.3% much so that new standing committees time,” she says. advise the General Assembly and have been created in 2021 in the Illinois “It’s something we make recommendations “on issues 17.5% 19.3% 19.1% Senate and Ohio House. all knew was an related to the overall improvement 19.9% They join extant committees in the issue and will be of the behavioral and mental health 18.1% 21.4% Illinois House (Mental Health & Addiction) even bigger with of Indiana residents.” 18.1% 22.5% and Wisconsin Assembly (Mental COVID.” The panel, which began Health), as well as the Minnesota House’s Illinois Sen. meeting last year, includes a mix of 19.6% Behavioral Health Policy Division. Laura Fine, chair Illinois Sen. legislators, directors of various state Proponents of separate mental/ of her chamber’s Laura Fine agencies, and experts in mental R 1 0 behavioral health committees say new Behavioral health. pushing that specific issue out of broader and Mental Health It has been charged with R 1 0 health committees gives legislators Committee, agrees. preparing reports that address enough time for “deep dives” into a “Historically, mental health has gotten mental health system assessment Source: Kaiser Family Foundation complex subject the short end of the stick, and we’ve and inventory, funding and data, that defies quick seen the repercussions of that,” she says, services to youth and families, and He adds that subjects such as mental and easy answers. noting the effects on individuals and system design and access. health in schools have been gaining “A lot of times, families, as well as costs to the state. Another common legislative strategy, more and more attention during HHS [committees] “This issue deserves its own in Indiana and elsewhere, has been Indiana’s regular sessions. can get committee. Everyone is impacted by to make mental health the subject of “The idea became, ‘How can we find overwhelmed with mental health, whether that’s yourself or interim study committees. a forum to bring everybody together?’ ” a lot of things,” says someone in your family or a friend.” “That’s a good idea, but whenever McCaffrey says. “Hopefully it becomes Ohio Rep. Sara Pending the assigning of bills, Fine you have a committee that big in terms a place where behavioral health issues Carruthers, noting says the committee will begin its work of what it can study, as important as Ohio Rep. that are difficult go for more study and that her chamber’s by holding issue-oriented hearings behavioral health is, you don’t have a lot Sara Carruthers in-depth discussion.” health and on medical necessity — the question of time when you only meet four times human services of medical providers, not insurers, a summer,” says Stephen McCaffrey, the Jon Davis serves as CSG Midwest staff liaison committee determining a patient’s course of CEO of Mental Health America of Indiana to the Midwestern Legislative Conference’s handled 99 bills last session. treatment — and how to reduce the and an inaugural member of the state’s Health & Human Services Committee. This year, she is serving as chair of the suicide rate in the Black community. Behavioral Health Commission. Agriculture & Natural Resources In Michigan, a portion of a tax on mining now helps fund rural development in many sectors
by Carolyn Orr ([email protected]) “Grants [from the fund] can go a long provide progress way to spur investment and expansion updates to the Per capita income among rural, urban residents (2018) cross the Midwest, income levels opportunities for Michigan’s rural board and reports 0 000 among rural residents tend to lag residents and communities,” Sen. Dan to the department. A those of their urban counterparts, Lauwers says. “The data and and the gap has been growing. The fourth set of grant recipients grantee reports 0 000 Since 2010, inflation-adjusted income under the initiative was announced in show that the fund $60,273 $59,044 rose 14.5 percent in metropolitan areas February. In all, the state is providing has been successful $58,739
0 000 $55,644 $55,234 $54,533 $53,784 vs. 9.7 percent in rural areas. Some rural $1.7 million this year to a diverse in helping to move $55,935 $51,548 $50,501 $49,533 regions, especially those far away from set of projects and grantees — for Michigan’s rural $48,863 $48,130 0 000 $48,425 $47,179 $44,158 urban centers, are experiencing actual $46,826
example, expansions of livestock communities $45,441
declines in per capita income. $42,422 $41,790 processing, local tourism campaigns, forward,” Throne $41,788 How can a state help some of its improvements in sewer and water says. 0 000 $39,780 more sparsely populated areas grow services, and help for local breweries. The and prosper? Project funding can vary Michigan Rural 20 000 One approach in Michigan has been considerably as well: $13,000 for honey Development to use money from one of that state’s bee hives or $100,000 (the maximum Fund receives 35 10 000 oldest economic sectors to improve amount for a single grant) to boost percent of the the sustainability and viability of other housing for seasonal farm laborers. money collected “land-based industries.” Under the competitive grant from the 2.75 0 I “Rural communities needed funding program, all proposals require at least percent severance I opportunities to kick-start economic a 30 percent match. Projects must tax on mining. I M N W development projects,” says Heather benefit rural communities or other Marquette M N D Throne, grant and commodity program areas with smaller population sizes (for County, located S D manager for the Michigan Department example, a county that might have one in Michigan’s of Agriculture and Rural Development. urban cluster of up to 60,000 people Upper Peninsula, R (Michigan has the lowest rural per-capita but still has relatively few residents). accounts for much Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service income in the Midwest; see table.) A five-member board establishes of the state’s The Legislature’s response was to the grant guidelines at meetings that mining activity, create a Rural Development Fund with are open to the public. Four of the and this region while also helping Michigan’s other a dedicated revenue source, a portion members are selected by the governor does receive preference in the annual rural communities thrive. of a 2.75 percent severance tax on and confirmed by the Senate; the allocation of grants. (In the most mining activities. Under the legislative fifth is Michigan’s Department of recent cycle, Marquette-based projects Carolyn Orr serves as CSG Midwest staff statute, which dates back to 2012, Agriculture and Rural Development received about half of the funds.) liaison to the Midwestern Legislative land-based industries include tourism, director. Agency staff later conducts The idea is to position Marquette Conference’s Agriculture & Natural food, agriculture, forestry, mining, and site visits with each of the grant County for economic prosperity after Resources Committee. oil and gas production. recipients, who are expected to the mining operations have closed,
2 STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 Economic Development Financial support, liability shields are among ways states have tried to help businesses survive pandemic
by Laura Tomaka ([email protected])
arlier this year, $216 million in Help for Small businesses: Overview of state strategies state aid started going to some of EMinnesota’s hardest-hit businesses, Direct funding support — broad-based assistance through federal the result of a bipartisan COVID-19 coronavirus relief funding; support for specific business sectors impacted by relief bill approved in late 2020. the pandemic; and funding to meet the COVID-19 needs of business operations In Indiana, South Dakota and Wisconsin, pandemic-related liability Support for small-business employees — assistance for returning protections were among the first bills workers; for quarantined employees; and for those working in hazardous passed in those states’ legislatures in industries; and coordination of federally funded layoff-aversion programs 2021. Actions like these have been Community resilience — support for locally driven economic development common across the Midwest (see strategies; broadband grants; and grants to promote consumer confidence sidebar article), with states trying and marketplace resilience to help businesses through an unprecedented year of economic Recovery and reopening — funding for data-driven recovery plans; liability disruptions and challenges. protections; and support for small-business technical assistance “Our small businesses have made Source: National Governors Association, “State Initiative for Small Business Recovery during the COVID-19 enormous sacrifices to their own Pandemic Economic Crisis” bottom lines for the good of our state,” Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said after the December 2020 passage for grants to local businesses and of relief this year: alleviating a “fear of “With reinstatement wait times of his state’s latest economic relief nonprofits. frivolous lawsuits.” significantly reduced, businesses can bill (HF45/SF31). As part of this $216 In Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine has Legislators responded with the reopen their doors faster, which is million package: proposed $1 billion in one-time passage of SB 1, which gives businesses good news for employers, employees • A total of $88 million in direct expenditures for an “Investing in Ohio” and individuals immunity from civil and Iowans across the state,” says Beth payments is going to businesses with initiative. It includes grants for bars liability for damages if someone is Townsend, director of Iowa Workforce revenue declines of 30 percent or more and restaurants, the lodging industry exposed to COVID-19 on their property. Development. (bars, restaurants, breweries, bowling and indoor entertainment venues; In Iowa, state officials are trying to help bring businesses back to life alleys and fitness centers all qualify). additional funds for an existing Small Laura Tomaka serves as CSG Midwest • More than $13 million in aid Business Relief Grant program; and after they closed due to the pandemic staff liaison to the Midwestern Legislative has been directed to Minnesota’s money to help new businesses. by fast-tracking the process for Conference’s Economic Development convention centers and movie theaters. Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, reinstatement (a few days vs. several Committee. • Counties are getting $115 million meanwhile, prioritized another kind weeks). Midwest-Canada Relations
Biden, Trudeau lay out vision: More help for small businesses, cooperation on energy transition
by Ilene Grossman ([email protected]) sections on combating COVID-19, chains that develop and produce next- advancing diversity and inclusion, generation batteries. They want North ights over softwood lumber. bolstering security and defense, and America to be the place where batteries Provisions in U.S.-Mexico-Canada Disputes over access to Canadian building global alliances. are made for zero-emission vehicles and agreement to support small- Fsupply-managed sectors. It also focuses on ways to help renewable energy storage. Disagreements on country-of-origin rebuild parts of both countries’ The two countries also have and medium-sized businesses labeling. economies that have been battered agreed to update and renew an They long have been serious, but by the pandemic. existing agreement between the U.S. Reduces paperwork for shipments manageable, quarrels between two Biden and Trudeau said they want Department of Energy and Natural 1 valued at under $2,500 trading partners and friends: Canada to find new ways of helping small- and Resources Canada. They plan to and the United States. In more recent medium-sized businesses recover and develop cooperative efforts that times, some of the two countries’ prosper, placing a particular emphasis help the two countries transition disputes have seemed less solvable. on women, minority and Indigenous- to clean energy and low-carbon Raises threshold on express “After 232 tariffs [on steel and owned companies. transportation. 2 shipments that can be sent to aluminum] ... the bad ol’ days have To reach this goal, they will rely in Binational collaboration in these Canada tax- and duty-free become the good ol’ days,” says part on portions of the U.S.-Mexico- areas will require participation by Carlo Dade, director of the Trade and Canada Agreement, which took full the states and provinces — the Promotes participation in government Investment Centre at the Canada West effect last year. The USMCA includes levels of government where many 3 procurement and simplifies process Foundation. several provisions to help small- and decisions on energy generation and New trade issues still threaten to medium-sized businesses increase transmission are made. Removes “local presence” divide these two allies. For instance, their share of cross-border exports “States have taken the lead on requirements for small businesses, soon after taking office, President Joe (see sidebar). cross-border energy and environment 4 allowing them to provide cross- Biden shut down construction of the In a single day, an average of cooperation — the Western Regional border services without opening a Keystone XL pipeline and imposed $2 billion worth of goods and Climate Initiative and the setting of foreign office new “made in America” rules. services travels between the United common, regional greenhouse gas Still, Dade and others are hopeful for States and Canada, as part of one reduction targets by the Atlantic a return to normalcy in the relationship, of the largest binational trading premiers and governors,” Dade says. and in their first meeting together, relationships in the world. “There is much that states and the leaders of the two countries were One unique aspect of this provinces have done and can making that exact pledge. relationship has been the do to cooperate in their areas of Biden and Prime Minister Justin development of cross-border supply jurisdiction.” Trudeau committed in February to chains. In key Midwestern economic a “reset” of relations between the sectors such as food production and Ilene Grossman serves as CSG Midwest countries while agreeing on some manufacturing, companies in the two staff liaison to the Midwestern Legislative shared priorities. countries make products together. Conference Midwest-Canada Relations “The Roadmap for a Renewed Building on this strength, Biden Committee. U.S.-Canada Partnership” includes and Trudeau envision a rise in supply
STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 3 CAPITAL CLIPS
$62 billion in federal aid coming directly to Midwest’s state, Local governments American Rescue Plan act: Estimates of Passage and enactment of the American Relief Act of 2021 in mid-March opened the spigot of federal COVID-19 allocations to Midwestern states pandemic relief funding to states and local governments, $61.7 billion of which is heading to the Midwest (see accompanying table). Total (including State fiscal Capital State aid to cities, According to an analysis by Federal Funds Information for States, a total relief fund projects of $350 billion is going to state and local governments — $219.8 billion counties) to a “State Fiscal Recovery Fund” and $130.2 billion to a “Local Fiscal Illinois $7.5 billion $254 million $13.7 billion Recovery Fund.” These federal dollars can be used to pay for pandemic-related Indiana $3.1 billion $202 million $5.9 billion expenses and costs incurred through Dec. 31, 2024. That includes aid to households, small businesses, nonprofits and impacted industries such Iowa $1.4 billion $153 million $2.7 billion as hospitality, tourism and travel. Other allowable uses include investing Kansas $1.6 billion $143 million $2.7 billion in certain infrastructure (broadband and water/sewer systems) and providing “premium pay” to essential workers. Funds may not be used to Michigan $5.7 billion $250 million $10.3 billion make pension payments or reduce taxes. Each state’s share is based on a two-part allocation formula: 1) $25.5 Minnesota $2.6 billion $179 million $4.9 billion billion equally divided among the 50 states, and 2) another $169 Nebraska $976 million $128 million $1.8 billion billion going to the states in varying amounts, based on their share of unemployed workers during the last three months of 2020. The governors North Dakota $1.0 billion $112 million $1.4 billion of Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio and South Dakota opposed this second allocation method, saying the distributions Ohio $5.6 billion $274 million $11.2 billion should have been based on population. South Dakota $978 million $116 million $1.4 billion Also in the new law for states: $10 billion for coronavirus capital projects that enable “work, education, and health monitoring, including remote options, in response to the public health emergency.” Each state’s allocation is based in Wisconsin $3.2 billion $189 million $5.7 billion part on factors such as its share of population, of rural residents, and of the number of lower-income households. Source: Federal Funds Information for States
Wisconsin boosts pay for public defenders, hopes to stem high rate of turnover Funding of Right to Counsel in Midwest
A new law in Wisconsin will allow for a boost in pay for the state’s public defenders, after a year of high turnover and concerns about its impact on indigent defendants, crime victims and local court systems. Between March 2020 and the beginning of this year, 78 people had left Wisconsin’s Office of the State Public Defender — the state-funded entity that ensures the right to counsel.Among the factors causing this spike in turnover: in-person visits to jail and court proceedings during a pandemic, higher workloads, and career opportunities in the private sector and other government offices. Under SB 62, signed into law in March, merit pay for a public defender can exceed 10 percent of his or her base bay for the remainder of this fiscal year. Legislators say the new law also will reinstate the state’s longstanding practice of linking the pay progression of public defenders to that of assistant district attorneys. According to the Sixth Amendment Center, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota contribute all or nearly all of the funding for right-to-counsel services in their states (revenue sources such as court fees and fines are sometimes used as well). In contrast, other states in the Midwest leave the costs to local governments or use a mixed funding model (see map). In its review of legislative S M actions in 2020, the Sixth Amendment Center singled out two states in the Midwest: Michigan for appropriating $117.5 million in grants for local governments to meet state standards on indigent defense, and Ohio for more than doubling its level of support for public defenders. L
Source: Sixth Amendment Center and CSG Midwest research
south dakota eases licensing process for out-of-state health workers
South Dakota is hoping to boost its health care workforce and be prepared for future public health emergencies with a new law that recognizes out-of-state professional licenses. HB 1077, which took just a month to go from introduction to Gov. Kristi Noem’s desk, directs state licensing boards to “issue a license, certificate, registration or permit” to someone as long as the qualifications for their out-of-state license are “substantially equivalent to or exceed” those in South Dakota. The new law also authorizes a provisional license if the person has to satisfy additional requirements to qualify. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many governors issued executive orders in 2020 allowing for this kind of flexibility in licensing requirements. Along with Noem, Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts has made it a priority to make these changes permanent. Ricketts touted the idea in his State of the State address, and this year’s LB 390 would allow holders of medical licenses from other states to more easily receive a license to practice in Nebraska. The bill, dubbed the “Uniform Credentialing Act,” identifies 27 different professions — from speech language pathologists and dialysis technicians, to mental health practitioners and occupational therapists. Several Midwestern states already are members of licensure compacts. For example, all Midwestern states except Indiana and Ohio are members of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. Nebraska, North Dakota and Iowa are in the Physical Therapy Compact; and Nebraska, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, and North Dakota are part of the EMS Compact.
Illinois House puts limits on how long legislators can serve as top leaders Legislative term limits in Midwest
Under a new rule adopted in early 2021, the Illinois House has instituted limits on how long a single legislator can serve as speaker and minority leader, the two top leadership posts in that state’s legislative chamber. No member can serve in these positions for more than 10 years. The Illinois Senate has had a similar rule on leadership term limits since 2017. Some legislators in Illinois have proposed making term limits on legislative leadership a part of state statute (HB 642) or the Constitution (HJRCA 25). Most of the current top leaders in Illinois are relatively new to their positions, but former House Speaker Michael Madigan served in this top position for 36 years. He left office earlier this year. This kind of limit on leadership tenure is uncommon in state legislatures. However, in the Midwest, four states have term limits for all legislators — the result of constitutional amendments adopted by voters between 1992 and 2000. Michigan has the strictest limit among the states. It caps lifetime service in the Michigan House at three two-year terms and in the state Senate at two four year terms. Ohio and South Dakota impose limits on the number of consecutive terms that a legislator can serve in a particular L L N chamber. Senators in Nebraska’s Unicameral Legislature are limited to two consecutive 4-year terms in office.
4 STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 CAPITAL CLOSEUP
deadline dilemma: Census delays pose new redistricting challenges
by Tim Anderson ([email protected]) ending in the numeral one”). For new state adjust deadlines for “conditions outside who draws the maps? Overview of legislative districts, a seven-member Ohio of the commission’s control.” n 2015 and 2018, two separate legislatively Redistricting Commission is supposed to In the Midwest, redistricting is redistricting processes in midwest initiated, voter-approved constitutional adopt a plan no later than the “first day of still largely left in the hands of state Iamendments remade the process of September of a year ending in the numeral legislatures (see map). And some of redistricting in the state of Ohio. on e .” the region’s legislatures already have The goal: ensure more bipartisanship Ohio sued the Biden administration in some leeway on when to complete the and curb gerrymandering in the drawing of February over the census delays. It was the process — there are no deadlines at all political maps. first U.S. state to do so, but is far from the in Nebraska, for instance, and language This new constitutional only one with scheduling in the Minnesota and Wisconsin language in Ohio also Capital Closeup challenges ahead. constitutions call for plans to be included some firm The Iowa Constitution, developed at the first legislative session deadlines on when those for instance, requires that a “after each enumeration … made by the maps must be drawn, under redistricting plan for state authority of the United States.” the assumption that the legislative districts be passed Li sees two challenges for states U.S. Census Bureau would by Sept. 15. After that date, related to the delayed release of Legislature draws district lines (single U.S. compile and release its the state Supreme Court census data. One is figuring out the House districts in North Dakota, South Dakota) population data as it has in takes on the responsibility conflicts in deadlines; the second Nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency draws the past and as set out in of drawing the new map — is ensuring that the redistricting district lines; Legislature votes on maps federal statute. with a due date of Dec. 31. process is done fairly, methodically without amendments But plans and schedules changed in 2021. Other states have statutory or and openly. Of those two challenges, Independent citizens commission draws maps “The release of census data has sometimes constitutional language requiring that the latter concerns him the most, been treated like the rising of the sun,” says new maps be done on a specific day in especially because many state Seven-member commission (legislators and statewide elected o cials) draws lines for state Michael Li, senior counsel at the Brennan the year “after the decennial census.” The legislatures are likely to adopt new Center for Justice’s Democracy Program. legislative districts; General Assembly has rst census count was done in 2020. That means maps in shorter, special sessions. chance to draw lines for U.S. House districts “What we’ve learned is that it usually works Michigan’s new Independent Redistricting “What we don’t want to see is a (commission is used if impasse occurs) that way, but not always.” Commission must have congressional and shortcut in the process, where hearings In February, the U.S. Census Bureau state legislative maps in place by Nov. 1. The aren’t held, where the public doesn’t census figures. “You’re just asking for a announced that COVID-19-related delays South Dakota Legislature must have the new have the chance to review the maps,” he says. lawsuit, a one-person, one-vote challenge, if in data collection and processing would map for state legislative districts done by One option for states as they wait for alternative data were to be used,” Li says. postpone the release of redistricting Dec. 1 of this year. the actual census information is to use information to the states — from March 31 “One obvious lesson from this year is that alternative data (such as population statistics Capital Closeup is an ongoing series of to a new deadline of Sept. 30. when you’re drafting redistricting legislation, from the Census Bureau’s American articles focusing on institutional issues This new release date falls right on the don’t put hard dates in there,” Li says. He Community Survey) for public hearings and in state governments and legislatures. deadline for the Ohio General Assembly to notes that a section in Colorado’s recently even the release of preliminary maps. Previous articles are available at adopt a bipartisan-approved congressional amended Constitution allows the state’s But when it comes to drawing the final csgmidwest.org. map (“the last day of September of a year independent redistricting commission to maps, there is no substitute for using actual Question of the Month
QUESTION | How have states in the Midwest tried to prevent Potential Prison Time for fraud in their unemployment systems? unemployment insurance fraud
Not only did many states handle a record number Meanwhile, various bills have been introduced in State Maximum sentence/sentence range of jobless claims in 2020 due to the impacts of the Kansas this year to hold victims harmless and to COVID-19 pandemic, they also had to deal with a modernize the infrastructure for processing claims. Illinois 180 days spike in reported cases of fraud. 6 to 36 months or 2 to 8 years A rise in unemployment fraud occurred across the Indiana In Ohio, for example, the Department of Job and country in 2020, and even before last year, some (varying classifications) Family Services froze 270,000 unemployment of the region’s legislatures had taken action. claims in July out of an abundance of caution. Iowa 10 years By August, about 56,000 of those claims were • Indiana’s HB 1062 of 2019 allows up to $10 Kansas 60 days verified and paid. In order to deal with the influx million from the state’s employment and training of both legitimate and fraudulent claims, the state fund to be used to prevent, detect and recover Michigan 1 year agency hired 80 more employees and reassigned delinquent contributions, penalties and improper 185 to work through the backlog. benefit payments. (The cap on spending Minnesota 20 years previously had been $5 million.) One estimate from Kansas has pegged recent Nebraska 90 days for each count losses in that state to unemployment fraud • Under existing Iowa administrative code, claims at $700 million. Its ongoing challenges led for unemployment benefits are not valid until an North Dakota 10 years to the resignation of the Department of individual’s identity is verified. Claims are locked Labor secretary, but also some recent policy until the required documents, one of which must Ohio 6 months innovations. For example, Kansas launched a contain a Social Security number, are provided. one-stop-shop website (ReportFraud.ks.gov) South Dakota 1 or 2 years for individuals to report cases of identity theft; • Four years ago, Michigan legislators changed once reported, a police report is automatically how the state flags fraud in its state unemployment Wisconsin 10 years generated, the victim gets tips on how to system (HB 5165 to HB 5172) — for example, mitigate damages, and the Department of Source: U.S. Department of Labor, “Comparison of State setting new standards for identity verification and Unemployment Insurance Laws” Labor is able to prevent sham unemployment requiring prompt investigations of potential fraud. claims from being paid. As of late January, this The state’s Unemployment Insurance Agency also program (which began in October 2020) had can now immediately cease benefit payments income tax refunds and a permanent loss of thwarted 250,000 fraudulent claims. when a person with a stolen identity provides an eligibility for unemployment benefits. affidavit and his or her employer corroborates the A second anti-fraud initiative was launched earlier information. this year in Kansas — a new software system in Question of the Month response by Mitch Arvidson ([email protected]), a program which individual claimants must confirm their States also impose a mix of monetary penalties manager for CSG Midwest, which provides identity by answering questions specific to their and allow for criminal prosecutions of individualized research assistance to credit history. Once a claimant’s identity is verified, unemployment fraud. The maximum prison legislators, legislative staff and other he or she is prompted to set up a two-factor time ranges from a few months in some government officials. This section highlights authentication. In its first week of operations, this Midwestern states to as much as 20 years (see a research question received by CSG Midwest. new system had blocked more than one million table). According to the U.S. Department of Inquiries can be sent to [email protected]. fraudulent log-in attempts, state officials say. Labor, other deterrents include forfeiting future
STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 5 COVER STORY
In Midwest’s Capitols, new laws passed, bills introduced on racial equity and justice
» CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Representatives through an intersectional Racial Justice decided it did not want rules on criminal expungement • a requirement that police wear lens of racial equity, setting measurable to create a report heavy on statistics (HF 600). body cameras; goals to advance equity through these (for example, data on racial gaps in • new procedures for certifying and policies and practices.” home ownership and education levels). de-certifying police officers; “Where we are Instead, it wanted to tell “a story of • development of a kindergarten today is not just why we are here,” Moran says. readiness assessment and expansion of about today,” says “What we knew we had to do was early-intervention services for younger Minnesota Rep. bring forth people with expertise, children; Rena Moran, one people who can give us a high-level • changes in the state’s graduation of two co-chairs narrative and historical perspective, so requirements and history curriculum; of the recently it wouldn’t be about people’s opinions, • expansion of trauma-informed created Minnesota but historical fact,” she adds. school services; House Select Released in December, the report • new caps on the loan rates charged Minnesota Rep. Committee on also included more than 80 policy by consumer lenders; and Rena Moran Racial Justice. recommendations. (Two legislative • limits on the use of criminal “It’s about a caucuses in Minnesota, the United background records as a basis for long history of Black Legislative Caucus and People employment and housing decisions. disproportionality and inequities in of Color and Indigenous Caucus, These sweeping changes in state law, funding and laws.” also have released or are planning to across many different areas of public For instance, she says, the practice release policy priorities as well.) of redlining caused low rates of home policy, are the result of what happened The committee presented its in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death. ownership among minority communities findings to the Legislature early for generations, and that practice still In early July, Sen. Lightford and other this year, leaving it up to individual has major repercussions today. members of the Illinois Legislative Black committees to pursue related bills. ILLINOIS: BIG CHANGES, IN According to Moran, examples like this Caucus met for a four-day Zoom retreat. As of the end of February, almost a ONLY A FEW MONTHS’ TIME can be found across many areas; taken The caucus brought in experts on dozen measures had been introduced. together, they give historical context to A flurry of legislative activity has issues ranging from disparities in They include proposals to: Minnesota’s current racial disparities. occurred in Illinois over the past few housing and the teaching profession, “Equity is not like the icing on the • increase minority representation months. Legislators passed bills on to food deserts, domestic violence and cake,” she says, “equity is the butter in Minnesota’s teacher workforce (HF criminal justice (HB 3653), police environmental justice. that is in the cake. It makes the cake.” 217); practices and oversight (HB 3653), “We just threw out challenges and • expand the reach of a equity-centered education (HB 2170) then sought out researchers,” Lightford homeownership program for low- and and economic opportunity (SB 1480, says. MINNESOTA: A LOOK BACK TO middle-income households (HF 998); SB 1608, SB 1980 and SB 1792). Caucus members then came to a HELP INFORM FUTURE POLICIES • limit the use of cash bail for certain Among the many changes resulting consensus on four pillars that Lightford offenses (HF 741); and from these various bills: says “impact us from the day we are The House Select Committee on • change the state’s drug laws and • an end to cash bail; born to the day we die.”
State actions since the death of George Floyd: Examples of New Policies enacted in the Midwest
1. NEW LAWS ON POLICE TRAINING, TACTICS AND STATE OVERSIGHT 2. BROADER CHANGES TO STATE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEMS
IOWA’S HF 2647, PASSED IN 2020 • new laws in Ohio expanding the use of drug treatment in lieu of criminal | conviction and allow more sealing of criminal records (HB 1), removing • bans chokeholds in most instances barriers to occupational licenses for individuals with a crim- • requires annual de-escalation training inal record (HB 133), and prohibiting the sentencing of individuals under age 18 to life in prison without • allows the attorney general to prosecute officer-involved possibility of parole (SB 256) death cases • passage of a 20-bill package in Michigan that aims • bars police departments from hiring individuals previously to reduce the state’s jail population — with policy convicted of a felony changes that range from re-classifying traffic-related offenses to giving police greater discretion to issue MINNESOTA’S POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY ACT, PASSED IN 2020 citations rather than make arrests
• bans police chokeholds in most instances • the end of the cash bail system for pretrial detention in Illinois, as well as various changes in sentencing laws (HB 3653) • creates an independent unit of state government to investigate cases involving the use of deadly force and charges of sexual assault against officers • gives citizens more input on the work and policies of the 3. NEW POLICIES AND TASK FORCES TO ADVANCE RACIAL EQUITY state-level Police Officer Standards and Training Board • establishes peer-based trauma counseling for officers • establishment by Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb of a new cabinet-level position in his administration — chief equity, inclusion and opportunity officer • includes training requirements for officers on how to respond in cases involving a mental health crisis • creation by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of the Black Leadership • changes the arbitration system for disciplining officers Advisory Council, which is recommending policies that “eradicate and prevent discrimination and racial inequity” ILLINOIS’ HB 3653, PASSED IN 2020 • development of a comprehensive set of policy strategies • bans police chokeholds and mandates that police wear body on criminal justice, education, economic opportunity cameras and health care access by the Illinois Legislative Black • invests in more training as well as health and wellness Caucus; multiple, wide-ranging bills passed in early 2021 services for officers as a result (see main article for details)
• establishes state-level standards on the use of force and • formation by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine of an Equity Advisory de-escalation techniques Board “to dismantle racism and promote health equity” • creates a new certification system for police officers and standards for de-certification • creation of a Speaker’s Task Force on Racial Disparities in the Wisconsin Assembly that includes a bipartisan group of legislators as • includes training requirements for officers on how to well as community members respond to incidents involving a mental health crisis
6 STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 COVER STORY
Difference in incarceration rates among Those four pillars were: are professionals from law enforcement, black, white residents in Midwest 1. Criminal justice, police accountability academia, public education, public health, local (black:White Differential) and violence reduction government and the justice system. Over the course of six months, the Kansas 2. Education and workforce development 5.2 Commission on Racial Equity and Justice 3. Economic access, equity and to 1 held 11 virtual full meetings and 26 learning opportunity 11.0 sessions. 4.8 to 1 11.5 4. Health care and human services “We all come from different perspectives, to 1 to 1 6.6 to 1 Next, the caucus presented its vision to and it is really a beautiful tapestry of people 11.1 8.4 legislative leadership in Illinois and helped to 1 5.6 that come together to address equity and to 1 8.8 4.8 to 1 organize a series of subject-matter hearings. learn together,” says Tiffany Anderson, who is to 1 to 1 Bicameral co-chairs were appointed for each co-chair of the commission and Topeka’s school 7.0 of the four pillars. superintendent. to 1 What followed were 32 hearings and more By December, the commission had identified than 120 hours of testimony, with each of the more than 60 policy steps that could be taken L 0 H 0 four pillars receiving at least seven hearings. in the area of law enforcement. 1 1 1 1 “We developed a bold and transformative These recommendations were organized not Source: The Sentencing Project (2016 study using federal data) agenda that we knew could address the deep only by topic (improved police training and roots of racism,” Lightford says. data collection, greater police accountability “And the best way to do that is not from and investments in behavioral health), but Estimated % of population, age 25 and over, with emotion, not from being discouraged or let by which branch and level of the Kansas down over the years from being a Black elected government should carry them out. bachelor’s degree or higher (2019) official, but doing it from the place of research, In all, the commission developed 30 ideas Non- data and best practices.” specifically for legislative action. American Hispanic/ State Asian Black Hispanic The legislative hearings included “We were looking at big, systemic issues, Indian1 Latino participation by advocacy groups (those for and they’re not something that the Legislature White and against various policy proposals), subject- alone can resolve,” says Shannon Portillo, who Illinois 34% 65% 23% 17% 40% area experts and the heads of state agencies. is the commission’s co-chair and an associate After the hearings, the caucus spent another dean for academic affairs at the University of Indiana * 59% 20% 16% 28% two months developing legislation based on Kansas Edwards Campus. what they had learned. “But we did push to have it done by Iowa * 51% 15% 14% 30% By December, legislators were ready to December so there could be legislative action Kansas 20% 50% 21% 14% 37% announce their findings and proposals. during the 2021 legislative session.” Then, during the Illinois General Assembly’s As of late February, one commission-based Michigan 18% 65% 18% 22% 31% lame duck session in January, the co-chairs for bill had been introduced, SB 247. each of the hearings introduced legislation Sponsored by the Senate Judiciary Minnesota 20% 46% 22% 23% 39% related to the four pillars, most of which Committee, the bill would require officers to successfully passed both chambers before the receive training on use of force and to pass Nebraska * * 21% 13% 36% conclusion of session. a course on firearms proficiency. SB 247 also North Dakota * * * * 32% Lightford says much more work remains, includes provisions on the hiring of officers including in areas such as health equity and and the administration of psychological Ohio 16% 63% 17% 20% 30% school funding. But she believes the recent testing. actions already point to success in moving In addition, Gov. Kelly’s proposed budget South Dakota 12% * * * 32% from “protest to progress.” contains additional funding and supports Wisconsin 19% 47% 15% 16% 33% for behavioral health services and for the state’s public defender system, both of 1 Data for American Indians include “American Indian and Alaska Native alone or in which were commission recommendations. combination with one or more other races.” The group’s 14 members also have called * State-specific rates for this race/ethnicity were not available. for an expansion of the state’s Medicaid Source: U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, 2019 program, arguing that the lack of access to care for substance abuse or behavioral health problems leads to more encounters with # of infant Deaths per 1,000 live births, 2018 police. 13.3 Kelly has said the various 5.5 recommendations, if enacted, can help Illinois 4.4 “create real change for Kansas communities.” 5.0 And the Commission on Racial Equity 11.9 6.0 and Justice is just getting started. It is now Indiana 7.5 focusing on the social determinants of 5.9 health, with plans to take a deep dive into 12.2 areas such as mental health, education, Iowa* 4.3 housing and economic opportunity. KANSAS: NEW COMMISSION TARGETS 11.7 Kansas* 8.2 LEGISLATIVE ACTION, AND MUCH MORE 5.5
In Kansas, where a mural of the fiery 13.5 abolitionist John Brown is displayed 4.8 Michigan 5.4 prominently in the second-floor rotunda of 4.4 the Capitol, much of the work on racial equity since the summer has been led by a newly 9.0 6.6 formed, 14-member governor’s commission. Minnesota 6.6 Established by executive order in June, this 3.9 group is studying issues of racial equity and 13.2 justice in Kansas. Nebraska* 7.7 Gov. Laura Kelly directed the commission to 4.7 first focus on actions that state agencies, the North Dakota* 5.3
Legislature and local governments can take 13.4 to improve racial equity in law enforcement 4.7 and policing. Members of the commission Ohio 6.0 5.6
South Dakota* 5.5
12.7 “We were looking at big, systemic issues, and Wisconsin 7.7 6.5 they’re not something that the Legislature 4.8 0 3 6 9 12 15 alone can resolve.” * Some data on race/ethnicity were unavailable or insu cient.
Black Hispanic Other White Shannon Portillo, co-chair, Kansas Commission on Racial Equity and Justice Source: Kaiser Health Foundation
STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 7 CAPITAL INSIGHTS
profile: Wisconsin senate majority leader devin lemahieu
A second-generation state legislator is taking inspiration from his past, and predecessor, in the first year as one of his home state’s top political leaders
by Jon Davis ([email protected])
evin LeMahieu has been watching Bio-sketch: Wisconsin sen. Devin lemahieu Dand learning about politics and public service all of his life. chosen Senate majority leader in late 2020 As an 8-year-old, he spent election night in front of his family’s console first elected to Wisconsin Senate in 2014 TV, watching returns come in from the historic presidential election of 1980. His owner/publisher of Lakeshore Weekly shopper father, Daniel, had volunteered for the Reagan campaign that year, and later has bachelor of arts degree in business administration and joined the Wisconsin Assembly himself for political science from Dordt College a 12-year run as a legislator. lives in east-central Wisconsin town of Oostburg That exposure to politics inspired the younger LeMahieu to get involved as well, though it’s sometimes taken him in unforeseen directions. At age 34, he ran for and won a seat on the Sheboygan County Board of “If I can move the needle in the right direction ... that’s much Supervisors, spending nine years in that part-time position. “I really enjoyed the more effective than being the voice of ‘no’ at all times.” work at the local level,” he recalls, “and realized how important it is to have people who are willing to put in the time of other important things to do, which govern at all levels of government. and be a public servant.” How would you describe your leadership style, will take a lot of effort, but I respect That is the tack I’ve taken in my By 2014, he was ready to try and follow Q all members of the state Senate. And first six years in the Senate. Especially in his father’s footsteps, with plans to and what are some of the especially for the other Republican when you look at our state budget. The seek election to the Wisconsin Assembly. characteristics of strong senators — who have their own districts easiest vote is “no” because you can But thanks to a series of other legislative legislative leadership that you’ve to represent and their own voices — it’s always point to all kinds of things that and congressional resignations, along observed over the years? my job to get us to come together on you might not think are great. But it’s with some encouragement from then- different issues. important to look at the overall picture. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, I’ve been in the Senate now for Is that budget doing what is right for LeMahieu instead jumped into a race for a A six years, and Senator Fitzgerald Wisconsin? Is it holding the line on seat in the state’s upper chamber. was the majority leader [for that time]. Has anything about being taxes? Is it actually making investments “And here I am,” he says. I sat back and watched and observed Q majority leader surprised in things like infrastructure and K-12 Not only is he serving in the state the way he led our caucus for the last six you so far? education and other important areas? Senate, he’s now helping lead it because years, and I thought he did a really good Then you realize that it’s actually Fitzgerald, the man who recruited him to job of letting the caucus get to its own Senator Fitzgerald made the job moving the state in the right direction run in the first place, won a congressional conclusions — directing the caucus but A look pretty easy, and at times, and being fiscally responsible. That’s a race this past year, creating a vacancy in not getting out over his skis. Essentially you don’t understand all the work that lesson I learned in 2006 that I’ve taken the top leadership position of the Senate not getting out in front of issues, or trying goes on behind the scenes. That is fine, with me. Republican Caucus. to ram his own will through. I’m ready and willing to work, but there’s Less than 48 hours after Fitzgerald’s He let individual members of the just a level of activity and work that goes departure, LeMahieu’s colleagues caucus weigh in and then tried to build on behind the scenes that I didn’t know What are your own chose him to be the new majority consensus from there. I think that’s an if I was expecting. I mean, I knew it was Q legislative priorities for the leader. At age 48, LeMahieu is now effective way to head a house. That’s sort going to take up a lot more of my time, new session? one of the state’s top political leaders. of the role I plan on taking. but I’m enjoying my role. He discussed his views on leadership I own a small business and I’ve Typically in Wisconsin, the leaders and effective policymaking in a recent managed people, so I have that A in both houses sort of shy away interview with CSG Midwest. Here are experience. But generally, I think the Are there lessons you from pushing their own legislation or excerpts: way my predecessor accomplished his Q learned on the Sheboygan asking other members to do it. Instead, work here was very effective and led to a County Board that stick with you they take a more 30,000-foot approach well-run Senate. today? in making sure we get a good budget, What were some of the but also helping out our colleagues with Q factors that led you to pursue It was great serving in a their legislation through the committee the position of majority leader? What has the transition A nonpartisan capacity because process and building a floor calendar that Q been like this year? you learned how to compromise and makes sense. I’m a single guy. I do own a find a solution that was good for the In the first two months [of 2021], we A small business, but I have a very In the Senate Republican Caucus, we county. If I can move the needle in had two great bipartisan bills that the flexible schedule and Wisconsin’s a have five new members, three of whom the right direction, do what’s best for governor signed into law. So I think pretty large state, so being the leader moved up from the Assembly and two Sheboygan County, and keep moving it’s been a great start to the session. of the Senate requires a lot of time and brand-new legislators. So a quarter of our in the right direction, that’s much more We’ve also had a host of bills that have effort. My current situation gives me caucus essentially is brand new. There’s effective than being the voice of “no” at been moving their way through the the ability to drive around the state and different personalities, and you have to try all times. committees that unfortunately didn’t get help out my colleagues and spend the and get them to work together, but we’re Obviously, there are some times when done last session because of when the time I need down in Madison to make only two months into this experiment I’ll vote “no,” but generally, getting good pandemic hit, and we’re looking forward sure that, in the Senate, we’re doing and I’m obviously still learning as I go. things accomplished is more important to getting a bunch of those bipartisan what’s best for Wisconsin. We have a budget to pass and a lot and is very important for being able to bills done here early on in this session.
8 STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 First person: Saskatchewan plants seeds for growth in agriculture, advances in technology Goal of province’s new incentives, investments is to become global hub for agtech The agri-food industry has the potential to become Canada’s largest economic sector ... $11 billion in new goods and services could be added to the national economy by 2030.
digital technologies to solve challenges growth led the nation, with a 2.5 in the agricultural sector. The agri-food percent increase. That compares to a Agriculture as % of total industry has the potential to become 12.2 percent decline across Canada. gross domestic Product in Canada’s largest economic sector. With This significant increase in exports four Canadian provinces* proper investments in agtech, the Royal is largely thanks to our agriculture Bank of Canada forecasts that $11 billion industry, which remains one of the by Saskatchewan Minister of Trade and in new goods and services could be key pillars of our economy. Province % of total GDP Export Development Jeremy Harrison added to the national economy by 2030. Our resources are the root of much Alberta 1.8% Last summer, our government in of our economic activity, and our griculture continues to be a major Saskatchewan launched the AgTech agriculture production provides a Manitoba 5.5% economic driver for our province, Growth Fund to encourage development basis for processing or input markets. Aa growing part of which is the of agricultural technology. Funding research and providing Ontario 1.2% development of innovative technologies. The program is dedicated to tax incentives have been the Our government is investing to accelerating the development of game- backbone of our policy efforts here. Saskatchewan 8.7%
position Saskatchewan as a global leader changing agricultural technologies; it will In many ways, our view is that a good * Saskatchewan is a member of The Council in agricultural technology by providing drive private investment in transformative business case and good business fit of State Governments’ Midwestern Legislative support to startups in this sector that farming and help attract international rely on a solid business environment Conference. Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario are will bring jobs and new growth to our agtech companies to Saskatchewan. — and a government that is willing affiliate members of the MLC. province, while also equipping our I’m proud to say our government also to listen and respond. Source: Statistics Canada (data for 2019) farmers and producers with game- offers a number of other incentives to changing technologies. support the agtech industry, including CROSS-BORDER TIES AND the Saskatchewan Commercial Innovation INVESTMENTS IN MIDWEST Saskatchewan is a major hub of BUILD ON A GLOBAL STRENGTH Incentive and the Saskatchewan agriculture research. For example: Technology Startup Incentive, both of Closely integrated supply chains and Growing up in rural Saskatchewan, • Protein Industries Canada (PIC) is an which have been critical to our province’s a stable trade environment encourage I’ve seen firsthand what our province industry-led, not-for-profit organization successful approach to economic growth. innovation and investment in Canada, has to offer the world. Globally, we have Saskatchewan and the United States, working to position Canada as a global the advantage of being a one-stop shop • The Saskatchewan Commercial particularly in the agriculture sector. source of high-quality plant protein and when it comes to the scale of our crop Innovation Incentive supports the We are seeing a number of U.S. plant-based co-products. Along with its production and sustainability, as well as a commercialization of new and companies investing in Saskatchewan, more than 240 members, PIC is investing move to more ingredients and processed transformative innovations by reducing including Raven Industries Inc., a more than $300 million to transform this products. This provides growth and the provincial Corporate Income Tax leader in precision agriculture. Based sector of Canada’s agricultural economy. business interactions unlike anywhere rate for eligible corporations to 6 out of North Dakota, Raven acquired a • Saskatchewan is also home to the else on the planet. percent for a period of 10 years, which majority ownership in Saskatchewan- Global Institute for Food Security, which Saskatchewan’s tech sector contributes can be extended an additional five based DOT Technology Corporation, a seeks ways to expand the global supply $4.7 billion per year (about 50 percent years with the improvement of existing, manufacturer of agriculture technology of food in a sustainable way. It works of which can be attributed to agtech) or development of additional, eligible with a focus on autonomous farming. with clients from around the world, as to the economy, making the province intellectual property. This acquisition will lead to further well as Canadian Light Source (CLS), the an attractive location for research and • The Saskatchewan Technology Startup commercialization of Saskatchewan- only synchrotron light source facility in development, manufacturing, and the Incentive is a nonrefundable tax credit of made products and innovations. Canada. Research at CLS has included testing of advanced technology. 45 percent for individual, corporate, or The province is also emerging as using beam imaging on plant root Agtech is the application of emerging venture capital corporations investing in a leader in the manufacture of plant systems in an effort to discover new ways eligible startup businesses. protein ingredients. The result has been to improve the disease resistance and attracting new investments from the nutritional uptake of crops. EXPORTS ON THE RISE United States. Saskatchewan feeds the world, and One example of this is Verdient Foods, While Saskatchewan has not been continued investment in agriculture now an Ingredion company. Among immune to the global impacts of the technology will be a significant driver of those who initiated Verdient were COVID-19 pandemic, our province has growth in the industry, creating jobs and renowned film director James Cameron demonstrated incredible resiliency as we opportunities. and his wife, Suzy Amis. The Camerons lead Canada’s economic recovery. I believe that by providing solutions in also entered into a four-year research Export numbers in agriculture and contract with the Saskatchewan Food the growing agtech industry, we add value food products over the past few months Industry Development Centre to develop to our communities, increase sustainability, continue to increase, thanks to growing value-added, plant-based food products. and strengthen our province’s global global demand. In fact, in 2020, our export Since its acquisition of Verdient Foods, leadership in food production. the Illinois-based Ingredion has expanded SUBMISSIONS WELCOME operations at the Saskatchewan site, and Editor’s note: All dollar figures referenced in a new manufacturing facility is under this article are in Canadian dollars. This page is designed to be a forum for legislators and constitutional officers. The opinions construction to produce specialty, pulse- expressed on this page do not reflect those of The Council of State Governments or the based protein ingredients. Saskatchewan Trade and Export Midwestern Legislative Conference. Responses to any FirstPerson article are welcome, Development Minister Jeremy Harrison was as are pieces written on other topics. For more information, contact Tim Anderson at CENTER OF AG RESEARCH first elected to the Legislative Assembly 630.925.1922 or [email protected]. of Saskatchewan in 2007. He previously As global leaders in agriculture served in the Parliament of Canada. biosciences and agri-food research,
STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 9 CSG MIDWEST NEWS & EVENTS
CSG justice center suggests 10 steps for states to improve processes on Registration now open for Annual meeting competency to stand trial of Midwest’s state, provincial legislators As states deal with increasingly overburdened processes to determine criminal suspects’ mental competency to stand The family-friendly event will take place July 11-14 in South Dakota trial (known as CST), they incur higher costs for incarcerating and treating — sometimes for years — those whose he Council of State Governments’ MLC COMMITTEES HELP SHAPE AGENDA competency determinations are pending. Midwestern Legislative Conference will A preliminary meeting mark a milestone anniversary this summer “Just and Well: Rethinking How T agenda can be found at States Approach Competency in a region steeped in U.S. history. csgmidwest.org. Each of the to Stand Trial,” a report from The The 75th Annual Meeting of the MLC will be MLC’s seven committees Council of State Governments’ held July 11-14 in Rapid City — South Dakota’s of state and provincial Justice Center, suggests 10 strate- “gateway to Mount Rushmore” that is also within legislators will meet in gies to improve this process based an hour’s drive or less from the Crazy Horse Rapid City and host policy on consensus opinions from a Memorial, Badlands National Park, Custer State sessions for all attendees. group of experts, as well as lessons Park, the Wild West town of Deadwood, and the Those committees cover the from states that have already motorcycle hot spot of Sturgis. following areas: embarked on reform efforts. Registration can be completed at csgmidwest.org. South Dakota Sen. • Agriculture & Natural Discounted registration is available through May 4. Gary Cammack The state of Michigan, for example, is singled out in the study Resources Designed for developing standards and qualifications for competency • Criminal Justice & by and for evaluators — the individuals who assess whether someone Public Safety Midwestern is competent to stand trial. The use of these shared standards • Economic Development state and can prevent prosecutors and defense attorneys from hiring • Education provincial “dual evaluators,” and thus save time and money. • Fiscal Affairs legislators, • Health & Human Services Here are the 10 strategies from the report, which is available the family- • Midwest-Canada Relations at csgjusticecenter.org: friendly MLC Annual Meeting The Annual Meeting of the MLC also is a 1. Convene a diverse group of stakeholders to develop a includes a showcase for a city and state from the Midwest. shared understanding of the current CST process. mix of public This year’s event will be no different, with special events planned for attendees and guests at Reptile 2. Examine system data and information to pinpoint areas for policy sessions, Gardens, the Crazy Horse Memorial and the Mount professional improvement. Rushmore National Memorial, and the Rushmore development Civic Center in Rapid City. 3. Train professionals working at the intersection of criminal workshops, featured speakers, special evening justice and behavioral health. events, and separate programming for the adult Please note: By registering for and attending 4. Fund a robust system of community-based care and and youth guests of attendees. the MLC’s 75th Annual Meeting, attendees agree supports that is accessible for all before, during and after Led by Senate Majority Leader Gary Cammack, to comply with all pandemic-related health and contact with the criminal justice system. who is this year’s MLC chair, the South Dakota safety protocols established by the MLC to help Legislature is serving as this year’s hosts. ensure the safety of all event participants. 5. Expand opportunities for diversion to treatment at all points in the criminal justice system, including after competency has been raised. 6. Limit the use of the CST process to cases that are inappro- Legislators lay out Great Lakes priorities for 2021 priate for dismissal or diversion. he Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Legislative 7. Promote responsibility and accountability across systems. Caucus has joined other Great Lakes- 8. Improve efficiency at each step of the CST process. Tfocused groups in announcing a set of shared federal policy priorities for 2021. 9. Conduct evaluations and restoration in the community, They include continued funding of the Great when possible. Lakes Restoration Initiative; investments in 10. Provide high-quality and equitable evaluations and water infrastructure and climate resilience; restoration services, and ensure continuity of clinical care strengthening ports and the maritime before, during and after restoration and upon release. transportation system; addressing harmful algal blooms; and fighting aquatic invasive species, including Asian carp. nominations now open for 2021 csg The Midwestern Office of The Council of State Governments provides staff support to the caucus: ‘20 under 40’ awards program to a binational, nonpartisan organization of state recognize up-and-coming leaders and provincial legislators that promotes the restoration, protection, economy and sustainable Illinois Rep. Minnesota Rep. Robyn Gabel Jennifer Schultz The Council of State Governments is once again seeking “up use of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. and coming” state officials under 40 years of age who are The GLLC is governed by an Executive providing exceptional engagement and leadership in their Committee of legislators from the states and Caucus activities include the GLLC Annual states or territories for special recognition. provinces of the Great Lakes basin. Illinois Rep. Meeting, virtual sessions on Great Lakes policy, and Robyn Gabel serves as caucus chair; Minnesota a legislative tracker to keep members informed of Nominations are due July 10. More information is available Rep. Jennifer Schultz is the vice chair. activity in the states and provinces. at web.csg.org/20-40/. CSG’s 20 Under 40 Awards launched Caucus membership is free and open to all state Later this year, too, the GLLC will hold the Patricia in 2020, and four Midwestern state legislators were in the and provincial legislators in the basin. Members Birkholz Institute for Great Lakes-St. Lawrence inaugural group of winners: have the chance to get involved in a number of Policy. The institute brings together a select group • Illinois Rep. Sonya Harper, Great Lakes issues — from having their voice heard of GLLC members to examine a single issue and on important federal issues to working with other create a plan for regionwide action. This year’s • Minnesota Senate President Jeremy Miller, legislators on state-level policy priorities. Members institute will focus on helping coastal communities • former Nebraska Sen. Sara Howard, and also have the opportunity for scholarships to become more climate resilient. Previous institutes take part in the GLLC’s Annual Meeting. Visit have focused on policies to reduce nutrient • Nebraska Sen. Tony Vargas. greatlakeslegislators.org to become a member. pollution and lead in drinking water.
The Council of State Governments was founded in 1933 as a national, nonpartisan organization to assist and advance state government. The headquarters office, in Lexington, Ky., is responsible for a variety of national programs and services, including research, reference publications, innovations transfer, suggested state legislation and interstate consulting services. The Midwestern Office supports several groups of state officials, including the Midwestern Legislative Conference, an association of all legislators representing 11 states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin) and the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. The provinces of Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario are MLC affiliate members.
10 STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 CSG MIDWEST’S BILLD PROGRAM
BILLD alumni notes: NEW dates set for 2021 billd program; Graduates serving as application deadline moved to May 14 cabinet ministers Leadership institute is for legislators in their first four years of service In January, the Hon. Kelvin Goertzen (BILLD class of 2008) became Manitoba’s deputy premier and minister of he Council of State Governments’ Midwestern Legislative and Public Affairs. Legislative Conference has changed the 26th Annual BILLD Program Tdates of the 2021 Bowhay Institute for “I am responsible for a number of ways Legislative Leadership Development (BILLD) to • October 1-5, 2021 in which the public interacts with the Oct. 1-5. government,” Goertzen says of his new “With the ongoing challenges and uncertainties • Minneapolis, Minnesota position. He adds that the position surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, moving • BILLD Fellowships cover the cost of tuition, complements his role as government BILLD to later in the year helps ensure our ability meals and lodging house leader, in which he works with to deliver an in-person program,” says Indiana all elected officials to advance the Rep. Holli Sullivan, chair of the BILLD Steering • Each Fellow is eligible for a partial business of the government and Committee. travel stipend to help offset the cost of promote democratic debate and discussion in the “Not only will this help us to better protect the transportation to and from Minneapolis Legislative Assembly. health and safety of our attendees, it also allows us • Application Deadline: May 14, 2021 to appropriately deliver the The Hon. Wayne Ewasko (BILLD class of 2014) also joins high caliber of training that Goertzen as minister of a new cabinet department in has become a hallmark of Manitoba. He has been appointed the minister for Advanced BILLD over the past two decades.” Education, Skills and Immigration. The 26th annual program will take place in Minneapolis, in partnership with the This position was created as part of Center for the Study of Politics and Governance at the University of Minnesota’s the premier’s focus on protecting Humphrey School of Public Affairs. vulnerable Manitobans and supporting Midwestern legislators interested in applying for a fellowship should be in their economic and social opportunities for first four years of service. The deadline for submitting application materials is May postsecondary graduates and immi- Indiana Rep. 14. Thirty-nine fellowships will be awarded by the BILLD Steering Committee, a grants. “We are committed to support- Holli Sullivan group of state and provincial legislators from the MLC’s 12 member jurisdictions. ing all Manitoba students, especially Fellowships cover the cost of attending the program; partial travel stipends are those who are financially disadvantaged and face barriers available to help offset travel expenses to and from Minneapolis. to postsecondary studies,” he adds. The application can be accessed at csgmidwest.org or by contacting CSG Midwest’s BILLD program manager, Laura Tomaka: [email protected] or 630-925-1922.
Each class of BILLD graduates includes legislators from the Canadian provinces. Several of these BILLD graduates are now serving as ministers in their respective Canadian provincial assemblies. 2021 BILLD SPONSORSHIPS BEING ACCEPTED
MANITOBA ILLD is made possible by funding from corporate and foundation sponsors who believe in the • Hon. Cameron Friesen (class of 2012): minister of importance of providing legislators with the tools necessary to improve their leadership and Justice and Attorney General Bpolicymaking skills. BILLD offers a range of sponsorship levels and widely recognizes its partners • Hon. Blaine Pedersen (class of 2010): minister of during the five-day Institute as well as through a variety of BILLD publications produced throughout the Agriculture and Resource Development year. Please visit csgmidwest.org for sponsorship information. • Hon. Ron Schuler (class of 2004): minister of Infrastructure ONTARIO • Hon. Lisa MacLeod (class of 2008): minister of THANK YOU TO the early SPONSORS OF THE 2021 BILLD PROGRAM Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries • Hon. Monte McNaughton (class of 2012): minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development SILVER SPONSORS • Hon. Jeff Yurek (class of 2013): minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks SASKATCHEWAN • Hon. Dustin Duncan (class of 2007): minister of BRONZE SPONSORS Education • Hon. Bronwyn Eyre (class of 2016): minister of Energy and Resources • Hon. Paul Merriman (class of 2012): minister of Health • Premier Scott Moe (class of 2013): minister of Intergovernmental Affairs • Hon. Jim Reiter (class of 2008): minister of SaskBuilds and Procurement; minister responsible for the Public Service Commission; and minister responsible for Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority • Hon. Gordon Wyant (class of 2011): minister of Justice and Attorney General PATRON SPONSORS
Please submit Alumni News to Laura Tomaka, CSG Midwest program manager for BILLD. She can be reached at [email protected].
BILLDThrough Steering Committeethe Bowhay Officers Institute | Co-Chairs: for Legislative Nebraska Leadership Sen. Sara Development, Howard and Minnesotaor BILLD, CSG Rep. Midwest Laurie Halverson provides | annual Co-Vice training Chairs: Iowaon leadership Sen. Amy Sinclairand professional and Indiana development Rep. Holli Sullivan for newer state and provincial legislators from this region. This page provides information related to the BILLD program, leadership development and legislative Through the leadership. the Bowhay CSG’s Institute Midwestern for Legislative Legislative Leadership Conference Development BILLD Steering , or BILLD, Committee CSG Midwest — a bipartisan provides groupannual of training state and on provincial leadership legislators and professional from the development for newer state and provincial legislators Midwestfrom this — region. oversees This the page program, provides including updates theon alumniannual ofselection the program, of BILLD as Fellows.well as information related to the BILLD program, leadership development and legislative leadership. The BILLD Steering Committee — a bipartisan group of state and provincial legislators from the Midwest — oversees the program, including the annual selection of BILLD Fellows.
STATELINE MIDWEST | MARCH 2021 11 THE COUNCIL OF STATE GOVERNMENTS | MIDWESTERN OFFICE CSG Events
CSG Midwestern Legislative Conference Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Virtual Events for Legislators Development Visit csgmidwest.org to find dates of upcoming webinars October 1-5, 2021 | Minneapolis, Minnesota and view recordings of past webinars on public policy, Contact: Laura Tomaka ~ [email protected] professional development and leadership training. 630.925.1922 | csgmidwest.org
CSG University: Virtual Sessions Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Legislative Visit csg.org to find dates of upcoming sessions Caucus Annual Meeting covering various topics on public policy and legislating. September 24-25, 2021 | Québec City, QC Contact: Mike McCabe ~ [email protected] 630.925.1922 | greatlakeslegislators.org
Midwestern Legislative Conference Annual Meeting July 11-14, 2021 | Rapid City, South Dakota Contact: Cindy Andrews ~ [email protected] 630.925.1922 | csgmidwest.org
Stateline Midwest is published 11 times a year by the NONPROFIT Midwestern Office of The Council of State Governments. ORGANIZATION Annual subscription rate: $60 U.S. POSTAGE PAID To order, call 630.925.1922 FOX VALLEY, IL PERMIT NO. 441 CSG Midwest Office Staff
Michael H. McCabe, Director Jon Davis, Policy Analyst and Assistant Editor Tim Anderson, Publications Manager Ilene K. Grossman, Assistant Director Mitch Arvidson, Program Manager Laura Kliewer, Senior Policy Analyst Cindy Calo Andrews, Assistant Director Laura A. Tomaka, Senior Program Manager Jenny Chidlow, Office Manager Kathy Treland, Administrative Coordinator and Meeting Planner
March 2021
The Council of State Governments, Midwestern Office 701 E. 22nd Street, Suite 110 | Lombard, IL 60148-5095 Phone: 630.925.1922 | Fax: 630.925.1930 Email: [email protected] | csgmidwest.org CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED